Image Processing Apparatus Depth Map Sharpness Control

The patent introduces a depth map as an intermediary representation that stores depth information for each pixel. This depth map is then used to control the sharpness processing parameters, allowing accurate depth-based sharpness adjustment without requiring complex real-time calculations during image processing. The depth map serves as a pre-computed mediator between the original image and the final processed output.

The patent applies different sharpness processing parameters to different regions of the image based on their depth information. By using the depth map to determine local processing characteristics, the system enhances the three-dimensional appearance in the in-focus region while preserving or suppressing noise in the out-of-focus region. This local differentiation allows selective quality enhancement without amplifying degradation factors across the entire image.

The patent dynamically changes the sharpness processing parameters based on the depth information and human visual characteristics. By adjusting parameters such as the degree of sharpness enhancement and noise suppression according to the depth map and visual perception models, the system achieves both efficient processing and visually comfortable output. This parameter adaptation ensures that the processed image conforms to human visual expectations.